“In our current economic state, the focus should be on lowering property taxes. This budget increases the county property tax levy by 3%. Right now, taxpayers at home are facing record inflation. Prices for everyday goods like gas and groceries continue to rise, forcing families to find ways to do more with less. At Erie County government, the opposite is true. Over the last few years the county has had historically high budget surpluses, with last year’s surplus exceeding $175 million. Still, many county resources and services are not meeting expectations. County Executive Poloncarz has found a way to do less with more. This is truly an embarrassment. We cannot continue to raise property taxes on homeowners when there is no fiscal reason to do so. It is irresponsible, and cruel. Our caucus stands united against this budget and will work with our colleagues in the Democratic Caucus to agree on a budget that doesn’t raise property taxes. With record sales tax revenue, there is no reason that this cannot be accomplished. We will continue to fight for taxpayers. Our message is "Cut spending and lower taxes now!.”
Republican & Conservative Caucus of the Erie County Legislature
Joseph C. Lorigo, Caucus Leader, Legislator, District 10
Chris D. Greene, Legislator, District 6
Frank J. Todaro, Legislator, District 8
John J. Mills, Legislator District 11